The Institute of the Motor Industry has announced a number of changes to its senior management structure including the move of chief executive Sarah Sillars to the position of executive chair.

Professor Garel Rhys has also stepped down as president of the institute following five years in this role. He becomes a vice-president.

Rhys's replacement is the current chairman of the IMI, Steve Nash who retains his position on the board.

Day to day management of the business will now be the responsibility of chief operating officer, Linda Stansfield, together with group finance director Edith Yembra.

Both positions will still report to Sillars.

A spokesman said: "The principal responsibility of the executive chair is to implement the strategic and annual business plans and to oversee the financial security of the IMI.

"Sarah will continue to lead the external ambassadorial role for the IMI within the industry, along with the president, vice presidents and group board. Steve will remain as the lead employer voice for the sector when liaising with the Government on behalf of the sector skills council."

The IMI learned last week it had been reappointed as the sector skills council for the automotive sector.